Back then, says Mr Thiraphong of Thai Union Frozen, his refusal to borrow and branch out was considered a liability.

ECONOMIST: Give it a chance

Thai Union Frozen Products, headquartered in Bangkok, sells for ten times a 2007 earnings estimate from CLSA, a Hong Kong brokerage specializing in emerging market stocks.

FORBES: Swimming in Prosperity

The labor union at Thai Airways International PCL, meanwhile, singled out "Battle of the Angels" for special criticism, saying it tarnishes the reputation of flight attendants and is a far cry from day-to-day life in the skies.

WSJ: Hungry for Drama, Chinese Viewers Send Out for Thai